A Dauphin County candy maker recently won a sweet award.
In June, Chocolates by Tina Marie in Hummelstown took home the inaugural Grand Confection Award from the Retail Confectioners International’s annual convention and expo in Buffalo, N.Y.
Owner Tina Olaf-Lerch competed against about 30 chocolatiers from across the United States and Canada and ultimately won with her Caramel Macchiato with Espresso Sea Salt. She was joined at the event by her husband and business co-owner, Ed Lerch.
“It was so surreal for us. This is kind of like the Academy Awards of candy manufacturers,” Olaf-Lerch said.
Chocolates by Tina Marie owners Ed Lerch and Tina Olaf-Lerch with their award at the Retail Confectioners International’s annual convention and expo in Buffalo, New York.Provided
The winning candy featured a caramel enhanced with instant espresso coffee, dipped in dark chocolate and sprinkled with espresso salt. Entries were judged anonymously based on criteria focusing on taste, creativity, presentation and overall quality.
“Many …